RVing with Your Pet
With a little planning and preparation, many pets can enjoy a fun and safe RV trip! It's great being able to bring your furry family member along for the adventure and skip the pet sitter costs. Use the following tips for RVing with pets to plan for your vacation. For more travel advice or to shop RVs for sale, visit 1st Choice Trailers. Our dealership is located in Goddard, Kansas, and we also serve Wichita.
Get Your Pet Comfortable with the RV
The first step is familiarizing your pet with the camper. Let your pet explore the RV while it's stationary at home. Use toys and treats to help them associate the camper with fun. You can also place their food, water, and bed inside so that they will know where to find it later.
Once your pet is comfortable with the RV, start taking a few short drives. Get them comfortable with the camper in motion and build up their endurance to the length of an actual RV trip. This helps set your pet up for a successful experience, rather than one that is full of stress or fear.
Secure Your Pet During the Drive
It's best to avoid having your pet freely walk around the RV's tow vehicle or the motorhome. If you suddenly slam on your brakes, take a sharp turn, or end up in an accident, your pet could be seriously injured. Plus, a wandering pet can cause a distraction or otherwise interfere with the driver.
It's best to keep your pet secure in a crate or carrier while the vehicle is in motion. You can have one of the passengers check up on the pet throughout the drive and keep an eye out for any signs of distress.
Take Plenty of Breaks
Pets need breaks during an RV road trip. They need to go to the bathroom, get water, get food, and stretch their legs just like their human companions. Plus, it can be fun for pets to explore the area and take in all the new sights and smells. Just be sure that your pet is leashed before they exit the vehicle.
Maintain Your Pet's Routines
As much as possible, try to stick to your pet's usual schedule. Try to keep meal times, bed times, and any walk times similar to what you do at home. This consistency will help reduce your pet's stress and help them enjoy the RV trip even more.
It's also helpful to pack your pet's usual bed. It already smells like them and will be a comfort in a new place.
Ready to shop RVs for sale? Check out the campers at 1st Choice Trailers. Explore the available models online or stop by our dealership in Goddard, Kansas. We also serve those in Wichita, Kansas.